Arsenal could announce a deal for Montpellier striker Olivier Giroud before the weekend.

The Telegraph says Arsenal are on the brink of sealing a £12 million deal for Giroud, with formal confirmation possible within the next 48 hours.

It is understood that the two clubs are now completing the paperwork on the deal. Barring any unexpected late hitches, Giroud will become an Arsenal player.

Arsenal have already signed Germany striker Lukas Podolski for £11.9 million this summer, with the arrival of another leading striker certain to intensify scrutiny over the future of Robin van Persie.